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Several significant changes are sweeping health care and increasing the need for capable EHR software.

ICD-10 is a new problem code set coming, which will require much change for operational readiness. Primarily, the billing staff will be impacted, but providers will have to select from a much larger and detailed problem code list to accurately code for ICD-10. Preparation should start now. The go-live for ICD-10 is Q3 2014 currently, and a lot of education and planning is needed in the mean time.

Meaningful Use – in the meantime, Meaningful Use Stage 2 is on the horizon. Stage 2 increases much of the demands placed on clinics for Stage 1. Patient engagement increases as well as most of the measures for the objectives. This will take planning and preparation as well, and possibly some investment in new technologies.

Health Insurance Exchanges – Expect this to have an impact as well, although it may not be quite as impactful to clinic processes. Many more individuals will be insured. When they become insured, they may be coming to see the doc for problems that they had been ignoring for years. We will have to wait and see what the impact brings, but keep this in mind and watch for impact.

Accountable Care Organizations / Patient Centered Medical Homes – these intiatives will have an impact as well. Even if you are not pursuing either designation currently, the changes to health care payments will certainly impact you in the future, so it is good to be educated as to what the changes will mean. Pay attention to the outcome-based payments and bundled payments, as these are certainly receiving much attention from the payers – including the federal and state payers.

Keep all these initiatives in mind when planning your next year’s objectives. Draw up a roadmap with the various dates and deliverables mapped out. It will be an interesting and exciting time in health care technology over the next few years.

ChartZoom provides the basic RFP form, which allows clinics to get introductory information for the EMR selection process. What vendors can meet their needs, what is the price range to expect, what are the EMR hosting options. Beyond this, it is critical for the organization to establish criteria for selection. Staff representing the front desk, billing, scheduling, and by all means, provider champions, should be a part of the EMR comparison process from early stages through the final decision.

Electronic medical record systems have many commonalities, and are often presented as completely flexible. The potential client may be told that the system is so flexible, you will be able to build the perfect system with the right customization. But how easy is the customization? How much time will providers want to spend building their own forms? How do the EMR software upgrades and reports handle a variety of form designs?

It’s important to press the potential EMR vendors to show working models. Walk through through your current workflows, and press them to demonstrate how those workflows will translate in their system. Require a site visit with another customer in the same specialty.

While many articles on ChartZoom are dedicated to the evaluation process, keep in mind that clinic will set the requirements for the system. There are hundreds of EMR vendors and many will have solutions that could work for you. Go beyond “We’re so customizable, we’re the perfect solution for anyone” and make them work to prove the viability of their systems. Start here with the form below to identify various EMR companies that serve your location and specialty, and collect initial system information and pricing.

KLAS recently released information from a new study about the EMR selection process. More than one third of current EMR software users are considering replacing their systems, and releasing EMR Request For Proposals through ChartZoom. This is significant as it may mean the wide EMR vendor market may begin to whittle down to a few big dogs over the next few years.

Already a hot market, ambulatory EMR sales – both first-time and replacement – have shot up again over the last year, and though options are more plentiful than ever, health care providers are leaning toward the tried-and-true, according to a new report by KLAS.

For the new report, Ambulatory EMR: Win Rates, Replacements, and Provider Loyalty, KLAS conducted nearly 400 provider interviews to identify the ambulatory market’s purchasing trends and interest in various EMR products. A key trend, according to the report, the rate of ambulatory EMR replacement has accelerated over the last year.

According to the report, health care professionals are turning to vendors they perceive as enduring and stable. Allscripts, eClinicalWorks, Epic and NextGen represent the best-known and most considered vendors in this study.

It will be interesting to see if the “interest” leads to conversions. Migrating from one EMR platform to another is quite the undertaking, especially considering that no EMR vendors seem to promote of assist you in getting your data out, after you’ve bought in. Here’s another note on the findings from the study, showing Allscripts, Epic, and NextGen in the lead.

In Ambulatory EMR: Win Rates, Replacements, and Provider Loyalty, the most popular vendor was Allscripts, considered in 16 percent of deals; it was followed by Epic (12 percent) and NextGen (10 percent). This report also highlights AdvancedMD, athenahealth, Cerner, eClinicalWorks, e-MDs, GE Healthcare, Greenway, McKesson and Sage.

Replacing a system? Or looking to make sure your first EMR Software investment is one that lasts? Complete the form below to be matched to the top EMR vendors for your area and specialty. Get free quotes and demos to help you in the evaluation process.

Hospitals and clinics are watching with interest – and positioning now – as the federal government further defines what the Accountable Care Organization model will look like. No doubt this will be the hot topic of the next couple years, as Meaningful Use becomes standard operating procedure for the larger health systems.

Some of the larger health organizations are already set up to take advantage of the increased incentives for shared financial risks. Smaller hospitals – critical access or rural health hospitals – need to be identifying strategic partnerships now.

One thing is clear: without the technology of a capable EMR software, these entities will not be able to track or report the extensive data points to be required by CMS. This will further drive the EHR software / EMR software adoption. Health Information Exchanges will be key as well. Larger vendors – AllScripts EMR, eClinicalWorks EMR,NextGen EMR, Epic EHR, McKesson EHR, Centricity, and others – are already preparing to help their customers meet the ACO requirements, even as the definitions are still being mapped out. We can help with your initial EMR RFP for free.

EMR Software Pro provided the following commentary on HIE technology and interoperability. This is insightful considering the current emphasis on Meaningful Use.

When comparing EMR software solutions, keep in mind the need for connectivity with outside systems: local hospitals, labs, transcription services, and many other beyond those. It’s crucial that the vendors you are considering can currently accommodate exports and imports via interfaces. You will want to exchange at least demographics, labs, meds, allergies, problems.

Be sure to learn more about each vendors plans to be a part of future HIEs and allow you to take advantage of the increased communication, information, and cooperation. This will also come into play if you have intentions to participate in an Accountable Care Organization in the future.

The regulations on Accountable Care Organizations will be released shortly from the ONC. We will learn at that time how much IT will play into this. For certain, EMRs will be critical to the success.

Here is a list of all EMR software systems certified to date by CCHIT. Compare EMR software for free – get quotes and comparison info – see the form at the bottom of this page. We continue to monitor and will add to this list.

It is important to keep in mind that while Meaningful Use compliance is a key driver for EMR purchases, it alone is not a long term strategy. Be careful to select a vendor that will meet your organization’s complete needs, from implementation through support and ongoing maintenance.

We will quickly match you with three to six electronic medical records providers in your area. They will provide you with free quotes, with no obligation. First, tell us what you are looking for – answer these questions and click Continue:

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Centricity EMR Software –

[ratings id=”centricity”]

From GE’s Introduction: Centricity® Electronic Medical Record (EMR) from GE Healthcare is a proven ambulatory system.

Relied on by more than 30,000 clinicians nationwide, Centricity EMR software puts information at the center of care – and at your fingertips. Physicians and staff can spend less time tracking down lost charts, searching for radiology images, or calling the lab for results, and more time with patients. Several partners offer great EMR hosting options.

With more than 20 years of successful implementations in settings ranging from solo practitioners to some of the nation’s largest healthcare organizations, Centricity EMR is an established solution backed by GE’s world-class service and support team.

From Allscripts, here are the advantages they highlight for their EMR software:

* Intuitive: Allscripts Professional thinks like you do. Its intuitive design mimics practice workflow, while its simple and flexible navigation mirrors a physician’s mindflow. And with anytime/anywhere access via your Apple iPhone, Blackberry or Windows Mobile device, Professional EHR puts you back in control of your day.

* Affordable: Allscripts Professional is the EHR that pays you back and there’s never been a better time to implement an Allscripts Professional EHR. Flexible financing options—including zero payments for the first six months—and a proven return on your investment make Allscripts Professional the clear choice. Plus, with the Allscripts Stimulus package, you can rest assured that your EHR will be stimulus-ready, no matter what.

* Connected: Allscripts Professional keeps your practice connected. Connected to over 50,000 pharmacies, connected to more national labs than anyone else, connected to virtually every major payor, and most importantly—connected to patients through the Allscripts Professional Patient Portal.

* Complete: With comprehensive Single EHR and PM/Claims Processing solutions bundled into one, Allscripts Professional has all the features you need in an EHR solution. The integrated Patient Portal and built in ePrescribing make it easy to keep your patients first. And hundreds of templates for well over 20 specialties come standard, so no matter what your specialty, Allscripts Professional EHR has you covered.

From eClinicalWorks, here are the advantages they highlight for their EMR software:

Modern Software Architecture

Either in a small practice or a large multi-specialty practice eClinicalWorks will scale to meet your needs. eClinicalWorks uses today’s software technologies from Microsoft and J2EE to develop a system that can run within your practice or your hosted data center. Access your charts from VPN connections, internet or a disconnected off-line mode.

Wireless technology

Today’s wireless technologies like 802.11 allow mobility and freedom to do your charts in the examination room or at your desk.

XML Technologies

eClinicalWorks uses secure XML to exchange data. The performance of eClinicalWorks in your office is significantly faster due to the use of modern technology.

Reporting

eClinicalWorks offers its Enterprise Business Optimizer (eBO) to allow more dynamic reporting with drill-down and custom report writing based on meta-data.

We will quickly match you with three to six electronic medical records providers in your area. They will provide you with free quotes, with no obligation. First, tell us what you are looking for – answer these questions and click Continue:

Allscripts HealthMatics is a solution to handling all of your electronic health records needs. The system is easy to customize and works for both primary care and specialty practices. It has a comprehensive knowledge base on 16 specialties which can be used by all users. This system will help you improve workflow and staff communication and will streamline your small to mid-size practices’ electronic health records. Since each individual practice has different requirements and needs, pricing varies depending on hardware and licensing. ChartZoom partners with vendors like Allscripts for EMR RFPs when comparing EHR systems.

* Additional Add-ons may boost the cost of the systemNextGen EMR(Review by Healthcare IT News)

Features: NextGen Healthcare is the leading provider of fully integrated electronic medical records and practice management software. Ideal for the large multi-provider enterprise or a solo practitioner, our award-winning solutions are proven to increase operational efficiencies, improve the quality of patient care and cut costs – all while delivering a healthy return on investment. Featuring the industry’s richest clinical knowledge base, NextGen EMR seamlessly creates electronic medical records. This comprehensive system facilitates clinical workflow and manages all data related to patient care outcomes. NextGen EMR also interfaces with numerous pharmacies, labs and hospitals, enabling practices to coordinate patient care across multiple provider levels. NextGen EMR is integrated with our secure Internet portal, NextMD, enabling providers to communicate with their patients online. Built on Microsoft Windows technology, NextGen EPM streamlines front and back office administration. This powerful system features a diverse range of functionalities designed to meet practices’ registration, scheduling, billing, and reporting needs.
Adaptability: Is your EMR adaptable to both physician workflow and specialty-care areas? NextGen EMR features specific content for a variety of medical specialties.
Functionality: Do you or will you have the following capabilities: e-prescribing, charge capture, management reporting, documentation and charting, clinical results review, and orders (non-med: lab, imaging, etc.)? NextGen EMR currently features all of the above functionality.
Integration: Does your system provide integration with ambulatory billing and acute CDR? NextGen EMR is fully integrated with NextGen EPM (Enterprise Practice Management) to share a single database. NextGen EMR also currently interfaces with more than 25 different practice management systems.
How many implementations have you done for physician offices? Our customer base currently consists of more than 900 practices nationwide.

Features:NextGen Healthcare is the leading provider of fully integrated electronic medical records and practice management software. Ideal for the large multi-provider enterprise or a solo practitioner, our award-winning solutions are proven to increase operational efficiencies, improve the quality of patient care and cut costs – all while delivering a healthy return on investment. Featuring the industry’s richest clinical knowledge base, NextGenEMR seamlessly creates electronic medical records. This comprehensive system facilitates clinical workflow and manages all data related to patient care outcomes. NextGenEMR also interfaces with numerous pharmacies, labs and hospitals, enabling practices to coordinate patient care across multiple provider levels. NextGenEMR is integrated with our secure Internet portal, NextMD, enabling providers to communicate with their patients online. Built on Microsoft Windows technology, NextGen EPM streamlines front and back office administration. This powerful system features a diverse range of functionalities designed to meet practices’ registration, scheduling, billing, and reporting needs.Adaptability: Is your EMR adaptable to both physician workflow and specialty-care areas?NextGenEMR features specific content for a variety of medical specialties.Functionality: Do you or will you have the following capabilities: e-prescribing, charge capture, management reporting, documentation and charting, clinical results review, and orders (non-med: lab, imaging, etc.)?NextGenEMR currently features all of the above functionality.Integration: Does your system provide integration with ambulatory billing and acute CDR?NextGenEMR is fully integrated with NextGen EPM (Enterprise Practice Management) to share a single database. NextGenEMR also currently interfaces with more than 25 different practice management systems.How many implementations have you done for physician offices? Our customer base currently consists of more than 900 practices nationwide.

Physicians and administrators across the country are preparing to make investments in electronic medical records software. The priority for many right now is ensuring that the software they select will be Meaningful Use compliant, as required by ONC for the ARRA funds.

Unfortunately, the Final Rule defining “Meaningful Use” has not been released. In light of this, there are a few considerations as you review EHR software ratings and compare features.

> Many vendors are offering guarantees that their software will be ready to help you meet Meaningful Use. Review the small print but this might helpful in allowing you to proceed now instead of waiting.

> Don’t rely on the EMR software to get you to compliance. While the vendors tout “Meaningful Use” compliance, there will be some necessary workflow changes (CPOE, etc), interfaces (quality reporting, etc), and axillary products (Web Portal, Secure Mail, etc.)

> While the certification process has not been defined, current certifications may offer reassurance that the software will be capable. One of the most notable & trusted certification bodies for the EMR world is CCHIT, so you may want to consider this in your comparison studies.

> Finally, while the incentive is significant, the highest priority has to be to improve patient care. EMR software can help you do this, but it will take careful planning and workflow design to be sure it is actually meaningful for you. When you evaluate solutions, consider how your team will work with each vendor; they will be your partner in this project.

We’ve done much of the research for you. Use the free form below as a starting point. ChartZoom can help you identify EMR software providers that serve your area and have solutions that meet your needs.